SAIWA Powers of Arrest and Apprehension 2

Question 1

Under the WA Criminal Code, what type of offence must be occurring for a citizen's arrest to be lawful?

Accepted Answer

Only an indictable offence (a serious criminal offence)

Answer

Citizen's arrest powers are limited to indictable (serious) offences such as assault, theft, and break and enter.

Question 2

After making a citizen's arrest, how quickly must the arrested person be handed to police?

Accepted Answer

As soon as practicable without unnecessary delay

Answer

The arrested person must be delivered to police as soon as practicable, without unnecessary delay.

Question 3

What is the key difference between detention and arrest in security operations?

Accepted Answer

Detention is brief holding, while arrest involves formal custody with intent to hand to police

Answer

Detention is a brief restriction of movement, while arrest involves taking custody with intent to deliver to police.

Question 4

A security agent arrests a shoplifter who then becomes physically ill. What is the agent's duty of care?

Accepted Answer

Provide first aid, call for medical assistance if needed, and inform police of the medical situation

Answer

The agent has a duty of care requiring first aid and medical assistance when needed.

Question 5

Can a security agent use handcuffs or restraint devices when making a citizen's arrest in WA?

Accepted Answer

Only if force is reasonable and proportionate, and restraint is necessary to prevent escape or harm

Answer

Restraint devices may only be used if reasonable, proportionate, and necessary to prevent escape or harm.

SAIWA - Security Agents Institute of Western Australia Test Practice Test